Structural Analysis and Design: 4 Important Considerations 

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Prior to breaking ground on any new construction project, important structural and design considerations must be addressed. Using the project’s architectural plans, structural engineers begin preparing a detailed structural analysis and design plan, adhering to these four important factors.

1. Design Code and Standards

Structural designs must comply with all national, state or local building standards, permit requirements and design codes. These criteria serve as guidelines when designing a proposed project. While building codes will vary depending on location, here are some relevant codes and standards to consider:

• American Concrete Institute (ACI)
  • ACI 318, Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete
  • ACI 530/530.1, Building Code Requirements and Specifications for Masonry Structures
• American Wood Council (AWC)
  • National Design Specifications® (NDS®) for Wood Construction
• American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
  • AISC 303, Code of Standard Practice for Steel Buildings and Bridges
  • AISC 341, Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings
  • ANSI/AISC 360, Specification for Structural Steel Buildings
• American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI)
  • AISI S100, North American Specification for the Design of Cold-Formed Steel Structural Members
• American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
  • ASCE 7-10, Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures
  • ASCE 37, Design Loads on Structures During Construction
• American Welding Society (AWS)
  • AWS D1.1, Structural Welding Code – Steel
  • AWS D1.3, Structural Welding Code – Sheet Steel
  • AWS D1.4, Structural Welding Code – Reinforcing Steel
• Department of Defense (DoD)
  • UFC 4-010-01, DoD Minimum Antiterrorism Standards for Buildings
  • UFC 4-023-03, Design of Buildings to Resist Progressive Collapse
• International Code Council (ICC)
  • International Building Code
  • Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA)
    • Metal Building Systems Manual
  • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
    • NFPA 5000, Building Construction and Safety Code
  • Steel Deck Institute (SDI)
    • Design Manual for Composite Decks, Form Decks, and Roof Decks — No. 31
    • Diaphragm Design Manual Third Edition — DDM03
  • Steel Joist Institute (SJI)
    • Catalog of Standard Specifications and Load Tables for Steel Joists and Joist Girders

2. Load Considerations

An analysis of load consideration is a vital part of the structural design. Load considerations will depend on the type of occupancy for the structure, as well as the height of the structure. Three common loadings of a building include:

• Dead Load (DL): Typically composed of the self-weight of the member or a structure
• Super-imposed Dead Load (SDL): Comprises of the floor finishes and the weight of the partitions,
• Live Loads (LL): Constitutes movable loads that the structure may carry.

3. Framing

Determining the proper structural support, or framing, is an important part of the process to ensure the safety of the structure. Structural analysis, through the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology, can help to determine appropriate slab thickness, beam dimensions, orientations, design of footings and more.

BIM is a 3D model-based tool that provides an effective means of designing and communicating, using real-time data sharing. This valuable insight helps to ensure seamless planning, designing, construction and management of the project.

The ultimate performance of a building relies on the collaborative efforts of all project participants. Once all analyses and designs have been completed, a structural markup, including the design, schedule and budget must be submitted. In this stage, complete collaboration between all stakeholders is necessary to ensure every detail is accounted for in the overall schedule. 

4. Schedule

The ultimate performance of a building relies on the collaborative efforts of all project participants. Once all analyses and designs have been completed, a structural markup, including the design, schedule and budget must be submitted. In this stage, complete collaboration between all stakeholders is necessary to ensure every detail is accounted for in the overall schedule.

Sustainable Architecture and Green Building Design Services

Structural analysis and design are just a part of the collaborative efforts required to achieve a successful project. At KMB, our structural engineering team brings robust experience, results-oriented designs and solutions, and a time-sensitive, client-focused approach to all our projects. As a responsive engineering company, our client-focused approach helps to reduce time and money spent for all assignments, no matter how complex or expansive your project is.

Read More: How Structural Engineers Contribute to Your Project

Contact us to learn more about KMB’s MEP Engineering services for your next sustainable architecture project.

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Disclaimer

As of 2022, KMB is now a TARP-approved vendor. The Tower Asset Review Program (TARP) from AT&T is a national program that governs how existing tower mounts are reviewed and analyzed. KMB’s acceptance into TARP is a reflection of the company’s deep commitment to accuracy, thoroughness, and client satisfaction. It also serves as an assurance to future clients that KMB’s Structural Engineering Department is a leader in responsive engineering and competent solutions. KMB takes great pride in providing in-house structural engineering for all services, from steel equipment platforms in the telecom industry to PV panel installations on rooftops in solar engineering. KMB has a complete team of licensed professional engineers on staff to review and analyze all aspects of client designs.

To learn more about the steps involved in achieving TARP approval, contact KMB directly at 855-755-6234.